HL Deb 17 February 1998 vol 586 cc27-8WA
Viscount Exmouth

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they intend to reduce 30 mph speed limits to 20 mph; and if so:

  1. (a) which motoring groups and other groups have been consulted;
  2. (b) which of these have offered support for the proposed reduction in speed limit;
  3. (c) when the new limit will be introduced;
  4. (d) whether the reduction will be nationwide; and
  5. (e) who will cover the cost of amending the necessary road signs. [HL564]

Baroness Hayman

The Government have no present plans to reduce the national 30 mph urban speed limit to 20 mph. We intend to propose amending existing legislation in order to make it easier for local highway authorities to make 20 mph speed limits in particular cases and will consult interested groups and organisations in due course. The costs of installing the present 20 mph zones have been far outweighed by the benefits in casualty savings.